Longtime sports reporter Dave Shea is Ogdensburg Chamber's Citizen of the Year

Thursday, October 18, 2012 - 11:32 am

OGDENSBURG -- The Greater Ogdensburg Chamber of Commerce has chosen Ogdensburg Journal’s sports editor David Shea as its 2012 Citizen of the Year.

The Ogdensburg Dance Center will receive the chamber’s Business Improvement Award, and the Outstanding Community Service Award is going to Carlisle, Carrothers & Clough, PC.

The awards will be made at the chamber’s annual dinner on Friday, Nov. 2 at the Gran-View Restaurant.

Shea was raised in Ogdensburg by his parents Edmund and Sheila Shea. He is a graduate of St. Mary’s Academy and St. Lawrence University.

The chamber’s announcement notes since joining the Journal staff in the early 1970’s, Shea has covered any number of national stories, but the local stories seem to be where his heart lies. His focus on local youth is evidenced by the endless pictures and positive stories he has told over the years.

“Dave has never printed a negative article, no matter what the score might be, Dave finds a positive and highlights that for the readers,” the announcement said.

“Dave Shea is an unassuming man who avoids the spotlight, today the Greater Ogdensburg Chamber of commerce wishes to put the light squarely on him as he so richly deserves.”

The Business Improvement Award for 2012 is awarded to Sean and Jill O’Brien of Ogdensburg Dance Center and Salon 1020 at 1020 Ford St. The young couple renovated their location into two businesses, a multi-service salon and multi-age dance studio. The O’Briens have also made major improvements to the exterior with new windows, doors, siding, landscaping, a new sign and a new parking area. The chamber said the new sign is a welcome sight on Ford Street.

With Preston Carlisle at its helm, Carlisle, Carrothers & Clough has given generously of their time and money to help improve the quality of life for the citizens of the greater Ogdensburg area, and have earned the Outstanding Community Service Award, the chamber said. For decades, whether it be with free legal advice, leadership on a committee or board of directors, or monetarily, the law firm has helped countless charities over the years.

Tickets for the dinner are $38. Dinner choices are prime rib, roasted stuffed chicken or broiled seafood platter. Dinner includes salad, rolls, relishes and dessert. In addition to the awards ceremony, the evening will include a silent and live auction.

For more information or to make a reservation call 393-3620 or email [email protected].